[Aseptic meningitis after intrathecal infusion of a parenteral nutrition solution: examples of rare malpositions of central venous catheters in preterm neonates].

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Central venous catheters are an indispensable part of intensive care. In the management of preterm neonates, these are introduced after puncture of a peripheral subcutaneous vein. The catheters are supposed to be pushed forward with the venous flow. A chest X-ray is usually performed for verification of the position of the catheter. Localization of the tip of the catheter is often very difficult because of its extremely small diameter.

METHODS:

A malposition of a central venous catheter resulting in intrathecal infusion of parenteral nutrition and subsequent aseptic meningitis in a preterm neonate is presented. Further cases of catheter malpositions leading to arthrography, arteriography and incorrect position in various parts of the venous system are discussed.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION:

The case reports demonstrate that wire-guided central venous catheters are not only advanced by the forward blood flow but can also inadvertently end up in undesired sites and may thus induce serious side effects.

• Authors: J Wirbelauer, D Singer, K Darge, C P Speer
• Journal: Zeitschrift fur Geburtshilfe und Neonatologie (Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol) Vol. 208 Issue 2 Pg. 63-7 (Apr 2004) ISSN: 0948-2393 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: Aseptische Meningitis nach intrathekaler Infusion einer parenteralen Ernährungslösung: Beispiele seltener Fehllagen zentraler Venenkatheter bei Frühgeborenen.
• PMID: 15112139 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Topics

• Catheterization, Peripheral (adverse effects)
• Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials (complications, prevention & control)
• Humans
• Infant, Newborn
• Infant, Premature
• Infusions, Parenteral (adverse effects)
• Injections, Spinal (adverse effects, methods)
• Meningitis, Aseptic (diagnosis, etiology)
• Parenteral Nutrition (adverse effects)